Winter 2012 volume 1 issue 2
10 Herbs Every medicine cabinet should have
Examining
Rx Drug Costs without Insurance
What is Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome?
Great Day Houston’s
Deborah Duncan The Thyroid Problem that ALMOST Stopped Her in Her Tracks
Rachel lost over 45 lbs. Both my husband and I did a 40 day round of the Fat Burner Program and we each lost over 25 lbs. The staff was supportive and helpful. Our energy level and mood levels were great and we were so glad to see the weight come off so quickly! Overall, I lost over 45 lbs. It has been amazing! I have recommended it and the Lisanne Wellness Center to many friends who have commented on how good I look.
Rachel Y.-
Houston, Texas Lisanne Wellness Center Patient
$50
Present this voucher for one Free Consultation and $50 towards Fat Burner Program Purchase must be made by March 31, 2012. Must present voucher at time of purchase. No cash value. Restrictions apply.
713-461-WELL Actual Patient not pictured
CONTENTS winter 2012
10 04 EDITOR’S NOTE 06 GET ACTIVE CALENDAR 08 CAUSES FOR HEALTH
14 14 What is Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome? 15
10 ON the cover: Deborah Duncan Deborah’s determination to treat her problem and not her symptoms led her to a healthy solution to her thyroid problem. Let her story inspire you to become your own health advocate.
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24
Prescription Drug Costs Without Health Insurance Surprising facts about the prices Americans pay for prescriptions.
18
Almonds and cancer Helpful tips to improve your health and community.
20 Is Acupuncture Effective on Migraines?
21 DID you know?
Helpful tips to improve your health and community.
22 An Herbal Medicine Cabinet Ten useful herbs and essential oils for treating common symptoms.
24 Treating Hypertension
How to lower your blood pressure with two dollars and a glass of water.
30 Health crossword
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Dear Readers, LISA BENJAMINI-Allon Publisher & Editor-in-Chief JILIAN RYAN Graphic Designer Debbie Porter Contributing Photographer mimi greenwood knight Writer ADDITIONAL PHOTOS istockphoto.com HEALTH CROSSINGS 10901 Katy Freeway Houston, TX 77079 713-461-9355 713-467-9499 Fax info@healthcrossings.com www.healthcrossings.com Health Crossings is a free, quarterly published magazine that discovers the importance of the combination of traditional and complementary medicine with an emphasis on wellness. Health Crossings is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. Health Crossings Magazine reserves the rights to images and articles submitted to the magazine. Advertisers assume all liability for advertising and photo content. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in part or in whole without written consent from the publisher. The content of this publication is for educational and informational purposes only. Statements have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration.
Thanks for your overwhelming response to our first issue. Like with any new venture, we approached it with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. The message we heard from you, our first readers, confirmed what we believed. We’re not the only trying to find a balance between traditional and alternative medicine; between seeking cures for the symptoms we’re experiencing and making the lifestyle changes necessary to remain symptom-free in the first place. Thank you for taking this journey with us. We hope you’ll let us know what questions you have about your medical, mental, physical and emotional health and those of the ones you love. What topics can we explore for you? What subjects do you feel are being under reported? Health, fitness, diet, beauty, travel, home, fashion, volunteerism—if it’s important to you, we want to cover it in Health Crossings. In this issue we consider the link between Almonds and Cancer. You might be surprised by what this much-celebrated food can and can’t do for your health. And I know I’m not the only one overwhelmed when I reach the herbal remedy aisle of my pharmacy or natural food store. In Your Herbal Medicine Cabinet we look at what Mother Nature has to offer—from all-natural Athlete’s Foot remedies to relief from an upset tummy, from achieving that elusive good night’s sleep to quieting an unruly blood pressure—and which remedies we should be sure to keep on hand. And speaking of blood pressure, if you’ve recently heard the word hypertension (Yikes!) from you healthcare provider, you’re going to want to check out Lower Your Blood Pressure with Eight Dollars and a Glass of Water. Blood pressure health may be simpler than you thought. In an economy where most of us are feeling the pinch, it’s disheartening to realize how many families are trying to make it without even the most basic health insurance. Average Annual Prescription Drug Costs without Health Insurance discussing the toll this is having on them and on the country as a whole. We were delighted this month to make the acquaintance of Deborah Duncan, host of Good Day Houston who shared her story of the health challenge that almost stopped her in her tracks. And if you’re one of the 700,000 American women who underwent a tubal ligation last year, you’ll want to know the information in Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome.
LISA BENJAMINI-Allon Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
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About PCOS Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) affects up to 10% of women (an estimated 7 million in the U.S.) PCOS also affects 11-26% of adolescent girls. Less than 50% are diagnosed. Most women diagnosed lack the education and resources to
manage their symptoms and prevent long term health risks. Some symptoms of PCOS: • Inability to lose weight • Insulin resistance • Enlarged ovaries • Multiple cysts on ovaries • Pelvic pain • Excess facial and/or body hair
• Irregular menstrual cycles • Infertility • Thinning hair • Acne • Fatigue Some risk factors of PCOS include: Diabetes, Cancer, Heart disease and Stroke. Helping the PCOS Foundation
gives women a chance to live happier, healthier lives. The PCOS Foundation’s outreach program helps lead women to early diagnosis and gives them the much needed education to prevent long-term health risks.
Save the Date for PCOS! WED
6/2012
Free Support Groups
Every 3rd Wednesday 6:30 pm at the Allon Health Center
9/2012
PCOS Symposium
Houston Stair Runner 5K for PCOS
June 2012
September 2012 Downtown Aquarium
About the PCOS Foundation The PCOS Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to serving the needs of women and adolescents living with PCOS. Its mission is to spread awareness though public and professional education programs in order to improve diagnosis and decrease or eliminate the lifetime risks associated with PCOS.
Donate Online Today!
Connect with us: pcosfoundation.org • 713-487-PCOS (7267) •
Making a stand for the health of millions of women and adolescent girls.
GET Active Calendar WINTER 2012
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January
February
1-22 The Ice at Discovery Green Nov 24 - Jan 22 Discovery Green discoverygreen.com/ice 14
15
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U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials Jan 14 - 8:00 am George R. Brown Convention Center houston2012.com Chevron Houston Marathon Aramco Houston Half Marathon El Paso Corporation 5K Jan 15 - 7:00 am George R. Brown Convention Center chevronhoustonmarathon.com
05 KOALA’S GALVESTON MARDI GRAS MARATHON AND HALF MARATHON Feb 5 - 7:30 am Saengerfest Park, Galveston galvestonmardigrasmarathon.com 11
11
Jail Break Run Feb 11 - 7:00 am Baytown Police Department jailbreakrun.org
11
Downtown Love Run 5k and 3k Fun Run Feb 11 - 9:00 am Bryan jlbcs.org/Fundraisers/DowntownLoveRun
10th Annual Rocket Run Jan 21 - 7:30 am Rockets Center Court Chili Pepper Quick Step 5k Jan 21 - 9:00 am Float Pool & Patio Bar, Galveston yagaspresents.com/chiliquest
28 Bill Crews Remission Run Jan 29 - 8:30 am Carl Barton Jr. Park, Conroe remissionrun.org 29 Miracle Match Marathon Jan 29 - 7:30 am S. University Parks Dr., Waco miraclematchmarathon.org
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Orphan Hope Marathon Feb 11 - 8:00 am Huntsville State Park orphanhopeintl.org/marathon
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Buffalo Wallow Cross Country 6K Feb 18 - 8:00 am Buffalo Bayou Linear Park houstonharriers.com Rhythm and Blues Half Marathon Feb 19 - 7:00 am Sam Houston Park rhythmandblueshalfmarathon.com
25 ConocoPhillips Rodeo Run Feb - 6:00 am Texas Avenue and Smith Street conocophillipsrodeorun.com
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photo John Gronberg
March
03 Riddle ride Mar 3 - 12:00 pm www.riddleride.net 03 Woodlands Marathon Mar 3 - 7:00 am Lake Robbins Drive, The Woodlands thewoodlandsmarathon.com 04 Armadillo Dash Half Marathon & 5K Mar 4 - 7:00 am Veterans Park and Athletic Complex College Station armadillodash.com 10
Bayou City Classic 10K Race Mar 10 - 8:00 am Louisiana Street, Houston bayoucityclassic.org
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DASH OF THE TITANS Mar 17-18 - 8:00 am Rio Bravo MotoCross Park dashofthetitans.com
17
Shamrock Strut Mar 17 - 7:30 am 2855 Gramercy at Brompton houstoneye.com/foundation
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Seabrook Lucky Trail Marathon Mar 18 - 5:30 am Meador Park, Seabrook seabrookmarathon.org
24 John J. Eikenburg Law Week Fun Run Mar 24 - 8:00 am Sam Houston Park
Get active! Train, walk or meet with friends at these local parks: Stude Park 1031 Stude St Houston, TX 77007 Neighborhood: The Heights
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March 24 Run 4 the Children Mar 24 - 9:00 am The Fellowship at Cinco Ranch run4thechildren.org 25 Run for the Rose Mar 25 - 8:00 am Reliant Stadium runfortherose.com 25 Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Half Marathon Mar 25 - 6:45 am Sugar Land Town Square slfinishlinesports.com 31
Mudder Dash: 5K Adventure Mud Run Mar 31 - 8:00 am Sam Houston Park Way mudderdash.com
31
Texas Independence Relay Mar 31 - Apr 1 Bastrop State Park to San Jacinto State Park (203.37 miles) texasindependencerelay.com
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3rd Annual Liver Life Walk Mar 31 - 8:30 am Terry Hershey Park go.liverfoundation.org Bellaire Trolley Run 5K Mar 31 - 8:00 am Bellaire City Hall signmeup.com/site/online-eventregistration/73810
Memorial Park 6501 Memorial Dr Houston, TX 77007 Neighborhood: River Oaks
Tue
Hermann Park 1500 Hermann Dr Houston, TX 77004 Neighborhood: Museum District
Every month M
city centre Running Club Every Monday 5:30 pm Ruggles Green FREE ccrunningclub.com
T
Brian O’Neill’s Run Group Every Tuesday 6:00 pm Brian O’Neills FREE bonrunningclub.com
W Block7 Running Club Every Wednesday 6:30 pm Block 7 Wine Company FREE facebook.com/pages/Block7Running-Club/228676230520476
If you have an event you would like featured in our Get Active Calendar, please e-mail event information and photos to: info@healthcrossings.com
Sam Houston Park The Heritage Society 1100 Bagby St Houston, TX 77002 Neighborhoods: Downtown Rice University 6100 Main St Houston, TX 77030 Neighborhood: West University Terry Hershey Park 15200 Memorial Dr Houston, TX 77079 Neighborhood: Energy Corridor Buffalo Bayou Park 18-3600 Allen Pkwy & Memorial Houston, TX 77246 Neighborhood: Fourth Ward Bear Creek 3535 War Memorial Dr Houston, TX 77084 Neighborhood: Addicks/Park Ten Mercer Arboretum 22306 Aldine Westfield Rd Humble, TX 77338 Karl Young Park 7800 Stella Link Rd Houston, TX 77025 Neighborhood: Braeswood Place
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Community Park 1700 Glenn Lakes Ln Missouri City, TX 77459 Hunters Glen Jogging Trail 1522 Texas Pkwy Missouri City, TX 77489 Oyster Creek Park 4033 State Highway 6 South Sugar Land, TX 77479
causes for health winter 2012
YouthBuild Challenge
HATS OFF TO MOTHERS
Masquerade Charity Ball
American Liver Foundation
Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Family Alliance
Houston Regional HIV/AIDS Resource Group
candle.org
hivresourcegroup.org
liverfoundation.org
Its mission is to facilitate, advocate and promote education, support and research for the prevention, treatment and cure of liver disease.
Provides emotional, practical, and educational support to children with cancer and their families.
Easter Seals Greater Houston
Liver Life Walk Mar 31 - 8:30 am Terry Hershey Park
eastersealshouston.org
Best buddies Texas bestbuddiestexas.org
Provides services to individuals with disabilities.
Exists to establish a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
HATS OFF TO MOTHERS LUNCHEON
Best Buddies Friendship Walk Mar 31 - 11:00 am FREE
fortbendhfh.org
University of St. Thomas
Cancer forward cancerforward.org
Survivors, caregivers, family members, friends, health and wellness experts and writers united in the mission to connect, educate and share information among cancer survivors.
#ICanGoForward: The Spirit That Inspires Luncheon Celebrating Cancer Survivorship Feb 28 - 11:30 am Hilton Americas Hotel
Mar 20 - 11:30 am River Oaks Country Club
Fort Bend habitat for Humanity
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The RockN’ Red Bachelor Auction Feb 16 - 7:00 pm Ruth Chris Steak House
Junior League of Bryan-College Station jlbcs.org
Women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women and improving our community.
Habitat for Humanity works by faith to change lives and empower families by building homes in partnership with God and people from all walks of life.
downtown Love Run 5k and 3k Fun Run
YouthBuild Challenge
laura recovery center
Mar 31, 2012 12:00 pm Sugar Land Town Square
Homes For Our Troops homesforourtroops.org
A national non-profit whose mission is to build specially adapted homes for service members who have been severely wounded in combat operations since September 11, 2001.
Houston Liberty Festival Jan 27 & Jan 28 - 10:00 am FREE American Shooting Centers
8 | Winter 2012 |
Maximizing all possible medical, psychosocial and educational resources to help persons affected by or at risk of HIV/ AIDS nationally with primary focus in east and southeast Texas.
Feb 11 - 9:00 am Downtown Bryan
lrcf.org
The Laura Recovery Center exists to prevent abductions and runaways and to recover missing children by fostering a Triangle of Trust among law enforcement, community and a missing child’s family.
laura recovery center Masquerade Charity Ball Mar 9 - 8:00 pm Pelazzio
health observances
January Cervical Health Awareness Month National Glaucoma Awareness Month Thyroid Awareness Month
Run for the rose
Pin Oak Charity Horse Show
National Birth Defects Prevention Month National Radon Action Month
Legacy Community Health Services legacycommunityhealth.org
Providing low-cost or no-cost healthcare services to nearly 40,000 Houston area men, women and children.
Cabaret For A Cure Hilton Americas Hotel Jan 21 - 6:30 pm
Literacy Advance of Houston literacyadvance.org Transforming lives and communities through the doorway of literacy.
The Reader Cup: Larry Dierker Celebrity Golf tournament Feb 27 - 8:00 am Blackhorse Golf Club
Memorial Hermann Foundation memorialhermann.org/foundation
Exists to advance the mission of Memorial Hermann by promoting its programs, facilities, physicians, research and projects in the community with the goal of attaining philanthropic support.
Under the Boardwalk Event Benefiting Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital Feb 24 - 7:00 pm Bayou City Event Center
PCOS FOUNDATION
National Folic Acid Awareness Week
pcosfoundation.org
Spreading awareness and education about polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) to women and adolescent girls with the goal of preventing future health risks.
PCOS Support Group Jan 18 - 6:30 pm FREE Allon Health Center 3rd Wednesday of every month
Texas Children’s Hospital texaschildrens.org
February AMD/Low Vision Awareness Month Prenatal Infection Prevention Month Heart Month National Children’s Dental Health Month National Wear Red Day (3)
An internationally recognized full-care pediatric hospital providing pediatric patient care, education and research.
Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week (7 - 14)
Pin Oak Charity Horse Show
March
Benefiting Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston’s Ronald McDonald House Family Rooms, and Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Family Alliance. Mar 21 - Apr 1 Great Southwest Equestrian Center, Katy
The rose the-rose.org
National Endometriosis Awareness Month Save Your Vision Month Workplace Eye Wellness Month National School Breakfast Week (5 - 9)
The Rose’s mission is to reduce deaths from breast cancer by providing screening, diagnostics and access to treatment for all women regardless of their ability to pay.
National Poison Prevention Week (18 - 24)
Run for the Rose
National Nutrition Month®
Mar 25 - 8:00 am Reliant Stadium runfortherose.com
World Tuberculosis Day (24) American Diabetes Alert Day (27)
Trisomy Awareness Month World Kidney Day (8) Brain Awareness Week (12 - 18)
If you have an event you would like featured in our Causes for Health Calendar, please e-mail event information and photos to: info@healthcrossings.com
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Photography by Kat Yares Debbie Porter
Great Day Houston’s Deborah Duncan
The Thyroid Problem that ALMOST Stopped Her in Her Tracks by Mimi Greenwood Knight Remember the Army slogan, “We do more before 9:00 a.m. than most people do all day”? That wouldn’t be far from the truth for local TV celeb and mom, Deborah Duncan. Few who watch the vibrant host of Great Day Houston in action would imagine the battle she has fought against an unhealthy thyroid that left her depressed, lethargic (to the point of falling asleep at stoplights) and unable to shed excess pounds. Health Crossings slowed Deborah down just long enough to ask her about her struggle and the bioidentical hormones she said made all the difference.
The Problem
When Deborah became a mom at age 41, she began experiencing disturbing symptoms. She was unable to lose weight, no matter how diligent she was about diet and exercise. She had no energy, falling asleep during the day but unable to sleep at night. She became depressed. Her hair even started falling out. Deborah sought a diagnosis from more than one doctor each of whom medicated her symptoms without doing much to get at their root cause. One doctor tried to prescribe Adderall and Glucophage, but Deborah knew it would not address the real problem. She wanted to find a doctor who’d do more than treat her symptoms, someone who would ferret out and eliminate their cause. She found just such a doctor in an unlikely place. continued on page 12
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“I struck up a conversation with a doctor at Starbucks,” she laughed. “He explained that, although my doctors had checked my thyroid levels, each individual has their own range of levels which is considered ‘normal’ for them. Mine could be out of line for what is normal for me and still be within a medical norm.”
The Answer
Deborah began taking a prescription for bioidentical thyroid hormones T3 and T4, hormones similar to the ones her own body should have been producing. “In only a few days, I was no longer depressed, had renewed energy and started sleeping through the night,” she said. “I take two doses a day of bioidentical hormones and my symptoms are GONE!” At one point Deborah switched doctors. The new doctor prescribed a synthetic thyroid hormone replacement. “I could tell right away it wasn’t working,” she said. “The dose it came in was either too much or too little for me. Compounded medicines allow you to adjust your levels, through trial and error, until you find the levels that are perfect for your body’s needs.”
Before A New Day
Once her stamina returned, Deborah sought the help of a professional trainer and lost twenty-five pounds in just six weeks. “My thyroid prescription gave me a level playing field again,” she said. “Now my body was able to lose weight. My trainer takes a very personal approach and I’ve been thrilled with the results.”
The 411
One thing Deborah learned through her ordeal is that each of us has to be our own medical advocate. Through extensive research she found that a thyroid problem is basically a diminishing of hormones, very common after women give birth and as they age. “I had both of these factors working against me,” she said. Thyroid problems can lead to other issues like infertility, and are often the culprit when a woman finds herself unable to get pregnant after already giving birth.
Deborah’s Advice
“Each of us should listen to our own bodies,” Deborah said. “No one knows your body like you do. Partner with your doctor giving him or her all the information about what’s normal for you.” If your doctor is content merely medicating your symptoms rather than looking for the root cause, Deborah suggests finding a doctor who’ll evaluate your health based on your body, not treat you based on a documented average or norm. “And any women—no matter her age—shouldn’t underestimate the importance of hormones,” she concluded. ■
12 | Winter 2012 |
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after Deborah was beautiful before, but now she is slimmer, happier and healthier since treating her thyroid problem.
Are You Fertile? Find out: Rapid Semen Analysis with Results in 24 Hours.
•Quick and Painless •Results in 24 Hours •Easy Scheduling
Call to schedule your consultation today: 713-467-4488 ext. 40
Omni-Med Laboratories | Houston, Texas
What is Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome? When you hear “Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome” what do you think of? There are many who hear these words and often wonder. Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome is something that strikes women after they have had a tubal ligation. Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure that blocks the fallopian tubes so that pregnancy cannot occur. Each year in the United States approximately 700,000 women undergo tubal ligation. After having a tubal ligation women will begin to experience changes in their bodies. Some of the symptoms that occur are: • Irregular menstrual cycles with heavy bleeding. • Insomnia • Unexplained weight gain. • Depression • Muscle aches and pains. • Flu-like feelings. • Feelings of doom. • Hopelessness • Extreme mood swings. This can be going from crying one moment to rage the next. • Painful intercourse. The above list is just a few of the symptoms that women report experiencing following tubal ligation. The problem is that they are searching for answers and not finding what they need. Those who suffer from PTLS want one thing; they want to feel “normal” again. They want to feel that they are back in control of their lives. Is it just the how they feel that is causing their frustration? No, it isn’t. Combine the fact that they cannot get their physicians to acknowledge this happens to women. Seeing doctor after doctor and having many medical tests run only adds to the frustration. Have women found relief from Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome? Yes and relief has been found with tubal ligation reversal surgery. Women that have had the surgery are reporting significant improvement almost immediately. Having Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome is hard enough. Having physicians tell you that this syndrome doesn’t exist can send sufferers into a downward spiral. Finding a physician, or just anyone, to believe that this is actually happening is a great relief. Do you know someone that is or has suffered with Post Tubal Ligation Syndrome? Has it been a battle to get those in the medical field to believe you? If so, you are not alone.
14 | Winter 2012 |
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Average Annual
Prescription Drug Costs Without Health Insurance
Americans are charged higher prices than any other nation in the world.
Year after year, prescription drug costs continue to rise and health insurance companies require higher and higher co-pays from those with prescription drug coverage. Many choose to forego prescription drug coverage and simply pay out of pocket when they need to take a prescription. Others, such as the very sick, poor and elderly, need prescription drugs but cannot afford them.
costs averaged almost $120. This average is based upon a one-month supply. People with no insurance coverage pay full price.
Americans spend a staggering $200 billion per year on prescription drugs, according to Marcia Angell’s book “The Truth About Drug Companies.” This cost continues to climb at a rate of over ten percent per year; it includes prescription drug co-pays by the insured as well as drugs purchased by those without insurance.
The world’s prescription drug companies routinely charge Americans much higher prices for the drugs than any other nation in the world, according to researchers at the Boston University School of Public Health. In the 1990s, Americans were charged on average 32 percent more for the same pills from the same factories than Canadians. In addition, as insurance companies negotiate discounts for prescription drugs for their members, the companies shift the cost of the drugs to those with no insurance, thereby raising the average annual cost of prescription drugs for the uninsured.
The average cost of prescription drugs in 2007 was just under $70. That includes both brand name and generic. The average cost of generic prescription drugs in 2007 was only about $35, but brand name prescription drug
One way patients with no insurance can reduce their average prescription drug spending is to opt for generic drugs. The average cost of a generic drug is much lower than the average cost of a brand name drug. According to
the Food & Drug Administration (“FDA”), “All generic drugs approved by FDA have the same high quality, strength, purity and stability as brand-name drugs. And, the generic manufacturing, packaging, and testing sites must pass the same quality standards as those of brand name drugs.” So it seems that the only difference between brand name and generic prescription drugs is the price.
Prescriptions by the Numbers $200 billion
Amount Americans spend per year on prescription drugs
32%
Average Americans pay more for prescriptions than Canadians.
$120
Average cost of brand name prescriptions in 2007
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Treating the Cause of Spinal and Joint Pain Experience long term benefits Instead of only short term relief seen with other treatment Talk to Steven Sacks, MD Prolotherapy Center of Houston: 832.545.4093 Prolotherapy is an injection technique that is intended to help the injured spine heal itself.
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Life is complete, thanks to you! Get started today: Call (713) 467-4488 ext. 60 to schedule your infertility consultation. Financing Available. Visit us at www.infertilityanswers.com or one of our six Texas locations: Memorial City | Katy Texas Medical Center |Cy Fair The Woodlands | College Station
“I strongly recommend the Advanced Fertility Center of Texas as a first rate fertility clinic and so much more. Through some of our darkest days, their faith in miracles continued to inspire me to keep moving. I look forward greatly to a continued relationship with Dr. Allon and his amazing A+ staff. Thank you all for the gift of my son and the opportunity to be parents. Life is complete, thanks to you!� - The Listis
Intrauterine Insemination In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Support Egg Donors Needed Donor Sperm
Dr Stephan Krotz, Mary Turner, NP, Dr. Michael Allon, Dr Dmitri Dozortsev
Almonds Cancer and
Many people wonder about the possible
cancer-preventing characteristics of almonds, mainly due to misconceptions about laetrile, which was heavily promoted as a cancer cure in the 1970s and 1980s, and still sold over the internet, despite being ineffective. Raw almonds do not have strong, specific cancer preventative or curative characteristics, although they do have general health benefits. Two small studies conducted at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto suggest that almonds may have a positive role in preventing heart disease. It is possible to plan a diet with a registered dietitian that substitutes almonds and almond milk as healthier alternatives to foods containing saturated fats and cholesterol. Such a diet may reduce the probability of your developing cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. Before making changes to your diet, consult with a health-care provider.
Nutritional Characteristics of Almonds One ounce of raw almonds contains 164 calories, of which 130 are from fat; more than 90 percent of these fat calories are the good or unsaturated type. Raw almonds have no cholesterol and very little sodium. One ounce of almonds also contains 3g of fiber and 6.2g of protein as well as 23 percent of your dietary requirement of vitamin E and several important trace minerals. Despite their high caloric and fat content, raw almonds, in moderate quantities, are a healthy and nutritious component of a well-balanced diet. Almonds also contain many phytochemicals, which are being studied for their possible
health-promoting benefits. Some studies indicate that quercetin, one of the phytochemicals in almonds, may have a role in preventing cancers, but the evidence is not, at this time, conclusive.
Causes of Cancer It’s impossible to predict with absolute certainty who will and who won’t get cancer. Genetic predisposition, environment and lifestyle are all factors. Your food and lifestyle choices can increase or decrease your cancer risk, but won’t make it disappear entirely. According to the National Cancer Institute, the main factors that increase your risk of cancer are age, specifically being over 65; tobacco; ultraviolet radiation, including sunlight; ionizing radiation; certain chemicals; some viruses and bacteria; certain hormones; genetic predisposition; alcohol; poor diet; lack of physical activity; and being overweight.
Laetrile: Ineffective and Sometimes Poisonous The almonds you normally buy in the grocery store are the nut of the sweet almond tree. Another type of almond is the nut of the bitter almond tree. Bitter almond nuts and apricot kernels contain amygdalin; laetrile, a synthetic form of amygdalin, was heavily marketed in the 1970s and 1980s as a miracle cure for cancer. Not only is laetrile ineffective for cancer, but it can cause cyanide poisoning. If you have concerns about cancer, you should consult a licensed health-care provider rather than relying on unproven remedies.
Is Acupuncture an Effective Treatment for Migraine Headaches? If you suffer from migraine headaches, you’re in good company. Migraine headaches are thought to affect up to a quarter of the general population at some time in their lives. Migraine headaches are a common cause of lost productivity and work time and can cause significant pain and suffering. Unfortunately, the medications used in the treatment of migraine, although effective, can carry significant side effects. This makes interest in an alternative treatment for migraine quite appealing. One alternative migraine treatment that’s shown some promise is the use of acupuncture treatment carried out according to the principles of traditional Chinese medicine. Is traditional acupuncture effective for treatment of migraine? Although previous studies looking at acupuncture as an alternative migraine treatment have shown mixed results, a new study published in the journal Headache, suggests that traditional Chinese acupuncture may play a role in treating migraine symptoms. This study showed that patients taking the prescription drug Rizatriptan for treatment of migraine had a reduced incidence of migraine symptoms when traditional Chinese acupuncture was added to their treatment. Rizatriptan is a commonly
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used migraine medication that alters levels of serotonin believed to play a role in precipitating migraine symptoms. Patients who were given acupuncture for treatment of migraine were able to reduce the level of migraine medication used. A previous study published in the British Medical Journal in 2004 also showed that acupuncture may be effective for treatment of migraine headaches. This study demonstrated that treating adults with chronic migraine headaches using acupuncture therapy significantly decreased the number of headaches the patients experienced as well as the amount of medication they used and the number of days they missed from work. The British researchers concluded that acupuncture is a cost effective approach for treatment of migraine. Previously, results of studies assessing the effectiveness of acupuncture for treatment of migraine have been called into question because of the “sham effect”. Sham acupuncture is where needles are placed in areas on the body where they wouldn’t normally be placed in traditional acupuncture. This is done to determine if the results are actually due to the acupuncture procedure or due to the
placebo effect where patients improve because they believe they’re getting treated. A German study published in Lancet online showed that sham acupuncture was as effective as a real acupuncture treatment and both seemed to provide benefit. The most recent study published in the journal Headache showed that actual acupuncture using traditional Chinese medicine techniques was most effective, suggesting that real acupuncture provides better migraine relief than sham acupuncture. If you have frequent migraine headaches, should you consider acupuncture as an alternative migraine treatment? There’s certainly some evidence suggesting its effectiveness for relief of migraines. Plus, use of acupuncture is associated with few side effects and is generally not cost prohibitive for most people. If you experience frequent lost days from work due to headache and have difficulty tolerating traditional migraine prescription medications, acupuncture may be worth a try. For the best chance of symptom improvement, find a reputable acupuncturist who uses traditional Chinese medicine principles for treatment of migraine. ■
Did you know...
...it’s good to eat fat?
Just make sure it’s the healthy kind. Fat helps your body absorb nutrients, helps the transmission of information in your nerves, and keeps your cell membrane healthy. Get your healthy fats by eating whole plant-based foods like nuts, seeds and avocados. Then, work to minimize (or eliminate) the amounts of extracted oils and processed fats you cook with on a daily basis (like margarine). Try this healthy fat recipe found on Whole Food’s website: AVOCADO AND GRAPEFRUIT SALAD RECIPE - Serves 4 - 2 grapefruits - 2 avocados, peeled, pitted and chopped - 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced - 1 head Bibb or butter lettuce Using a large knife, carefully peel grapefruits, making sure to remove all of the white pith. Working over a large bowl to catch any juice, cut along the side of each membrane to release the segments and let them drop into the bowl. Add avocados and onion, and toss well. Arrange lettuce leaves on a platter, spoon salad over the top and serve. This information and other recipes can be found at wholefoodsmarket.com
...eating too many sweets does more than add extra pounds?
Treating yourself too often will: - zap your energy - disrupt your concentration and focus - impair your immune system - elicit mood swings - accelerate the aging process - increase cravings - contribute to weight gain Your Holiday Sweet Survival Guide: 1. Have a Sweet Treats Plan The best way to not blow it is to plan ahead and know when you will treat yourself. 2. Do Not Skip Meals Skipping meals to “save room” for your sweets treats will only slow your metabolism down, so the fat storing impact of sugar has a greater effect on your body’s ability to gain holiday pounds. 3. Avoid Sugary Drinks If you want to keep your sugar level in check, don’t waste your consumption on a soda, juice or fancy coffee. 4. Check your Self-Talk Rid yourself of self-sabotaging views – such as “I need to eat this, it’s the holidays, they only come once a year.” Instead think about what you can do to keep you fat loss efforts in check. 5. The most important tip: Practice Moderation! This information is from Holly Rigsby, Busy Mom Fat Loss Expert and Author FitYummyMummy.com • ClubFYM.com
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.com | Fall 2011 | 21
An Herbal Medicine Cabinet Once you discover how wonderful herbal remedies can be, you may go overboard stocking your medicine cabinet with herbs you will probably never need. In your efforts you may overlook the basics of what
you should have. There are ten herbs and essential oils that every medicine cabinet should have. With these herbs in your medicine chest, most common ailments can be treated
simply and naturally. Before taking any herbs, consult with your doctor, especially if you are on any type of prescription medication. There are many books available on the subject
of herbal remedies. Many websites have extensive information available also. With a bit of research, you can have the abundance of Mother Nature to help relieve almost any illness you may contract.
Tea Tree Oil.
This essential oil is an anti-bacterial, anti-viral and an anti-fungal all rolled into one. Use this for ringworm, lice, athlete’s foot and any other bacterial or fungal ailment.
Echinacea. This herb works by strengthening the immune system. If taken by either tincture or brewed into a tea at the first sign of a cold, the duration of the illness will be shortened.
St. John’s Wort. Taken
correctly this herb is known as an anti-depressant. German researchers have proven it works as well as many pharmaceuticals on the market. Care must be used that this herb is not used with any other prescription antidepressants.
Garlic. While many may not consider garlic an herb, it has been proven to help lower blood pressure. Garlic also works to keep the intestinal track clean and free of parasites.
Valerian Root.
If you can get past the smell of this stinky herb, it will act as a sedative and an anti-depressant. Taken before bedtime, it will help guarantee a good nights sleep.
Chamomile. This herb brewed into a tea will
calm an upset stomach in both babies and adults. It will also act as a sedative, allowing you to relax and let go of the day’s stresses. Chamomile essential oil added to a bath will calm both children and adults.
Ginseng. This
comes in three varieties, American, Siberian and Oriental. American ginseng is said to be cooling and will help balance out emotions. Oriental ginseng or panax is said to be warming and will give extra energy. Siberian ginseng is not really ginseng at all, but a plant with the same properties of panax.
Lemons. This can be either essential oil or fresh lemons. Use this for insect bites, rashes or combine with honey for a natural cough suppressant.
Aloe Vera. This is the one plant that you
Ginko Biloba.
The extract from this tree is said to help improve memory, benefit the eyes and aid in circulation.
Article written by Kat Yares
keep in the kitchen. Perfect for reducing the blistering effect of burns, the gel from this plant’s leaves can also lessen the pain of sunburn.
.com | Winter 2012 | 23
Treating Hypertension: Lower Your Blood Pressure with Two Dollars and a Glass of Water
Neither your doctor nor your friends are happy with you. Your blood pressure has risen and your doctor has warned you that you’re endangering your health. The word “hypertension” is supposed to refer to the pressure on your arterial walls, but it’s starting to feel like there’s “hypertension” between you and your family.
blood pressure was likely to drop. Some patients took as much as 15 grams of fish oil a day, and these patients realized larger improvements than patients that only took 3 grams or less a day. This study has served as the basis for many other studies and has been widely cited in the years since its publication.
Happily, you can lower your blood pressure with fish oil. Researchers have found that fish oil can significantly reduce hypertension, sometimes within a matter of weeks. In a seminal meta-analysis, researchers from Harvard’s School of Public Health assessed the ability of fish oil to lower blood pressure. After carefully grouping and analyzing 32 studies, Harvard’s researchers concluded that fish oil reduces blood pressure in people suffering from high blood pressure, but not in people that were healthy. Interestingly, the more fish oil a patient consumed, the more his
Doctors use fish oil to treat several serious conditions: patients with hypertension, clinical atherosclerotic disease or hypercholesterolemia can all realize significant health improvements after taking fish oil. Unlike most clinical drugs, there are no significant side effects associated with fish oil, and you can begin taking it without a prescription. Patients need not take the oil from a spoon – these days, most people ingest fish oil in tablet form. The only cost is about $2 a day for pharmaceutical grade fish oil pills, plus the cost of a
glass of water. Some people prefer enteric coated fish oil tablets, which take several hours to dissolve in the stomach and can prevent the fish breath that some people experience after ingesting non-enteric tablets. Fish oil’s beneficial effects can be attributed to its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Researchers believe that in addition to lowering blood pressure, Omega-3 fatty acids can prevent heart disease. Omega-3 fatty acids are the primary reason that Inuit (Eskimo) people living in Greenland experience very little heart disease, despite a fattening seafood diet. So, for only eight dollars and a glass of water, you can significantly reduce your blood pressure. Best of all, no doctor’s prescription is required. Make fish oil a regular part of your life, and you’ll find that you, your doctor, and your family reap substantial rewards.
References: Circulation, 88:523-533, Does Fish Oil Lower Blood Pressure? A Meta-Analysis of Controlled Trials, 1993. Epidemiology/Population Studies, 50:313319, Food Omega-3 Fatty Acid Intake of Individuals (Total, Linolenic Acid, Long-Chain) and Their Blood Pressure, 2007. Am J Clin Nutr 28 (9): 958–66, Fatty Acid Composition of the Plasma Lipids in Greenland Eskimos, 1975
.com | Winter 2012 | 25
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4. Cable TV host undergoing double mastectomy 6. Good cholesterol 7. High blood pressure 12. Bones that make up the spine 14. Endocrine gland located on the neck essential for the regulation of growth and metabolism 15. Unit of measurement for food energy 17. Plant used to help heal sunburns 18. Feeling observed by a person indicating the presence of disease or abnormality
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1. Fruit sugar 2. Branch of medicine that cares for infants and children 3. Nutrient essential for proper functioning of the heart, kidneys, muscles, nerves, and digestive system and found in bananas, cantaloupe, nuts and spinach
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5. Prescription used to control symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder 7. Chemical released by a cell or a gland that sends out messages that affect cells in other parts of the organism 8. Occurring or present before birth 9. _____-rich food contains many vitamins and minerals but few calories. 10. Exercise that conditions the heart and lungs by increasing the efficiency of oxygen intake by the body 11. Style of coaching that helps people identify and achieve personal goals 13. Consumer protection agency regulating human and veterinary drugs, biological products, medical devices, our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, and products that emit radiation 16. Popular TV doctor
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